2027: Matawalle using ‘ill-gotten wealth, intimidation’ to compel defections in Zamfara – PDP leaders

Operating under the aegis of the Northern Elders Unity Forum of the Peoples Democratic Party, the group based in Zamfara has accused the Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Bello Matawale of using ‘monetary inducement and intimidation’ to compel defections to the All Progressives Congress, APC.

The group said the Minister has masterminded large scale defections of the PDP members to the APC in the North West ahead of 2027 general election, but lamented that the use of monetary inducement was anti-democratic.

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In a statement made available to journalists on Monday, issued by its National Secretary, Dr. Abbas Sadauki, berated the Minister, described his action as “desperate antics” to weaken the PDP, when he resorted to the use of his ‘ill-gotten wealth’ and even when he is not on ground.

Dr Sadauki claimed that Matawalle has been using his ill-gotten wealth to deceive members of PDP in Zamfara and Kaduna States into joining the APC against their will.

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“Matawalle’s desperate attempt to destroy the PDP in Zamfara and beyond is a direct assault on democracy and the right to political choice,” Sadauki stressed after a meeting with PDP elders from Kaura Namoda, Zurmi, Tsafe, and Bungudu local governments.

“Dismantling opposition groups through financial inducement and coercion is a bad omen for our democracy,” Sadauki warned, insisting that “Many loyal members are being deceived into believing they will find greener pastures in the APC.

“This is dangerous for democratic stability.”

The Forum called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to rein in the minister, warning that his actions could further polarise the political landscape and undermine fair competition.

“We urge President Tinubu to call Matawalle to order before he causes irreversible damage to Nigeria’s democratic balance,” the statement added.

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